Ebook: PERSPECTIVES OF SOCIETAL SECURITY IN GEORGIA

This study introduces the lesser-known concept of ‘societal
security’ to the Georgian discussion space. Societal security
is best explained using the broad definition of Copenhagenbased
researcher Ole Wæver: it concerns “the ability of a
society to persist under changing conditions and possible
and actual threats.”
Over the last thirty years, the societal security model has
undergone a rather complex path of development that
has been closely linked to the Nordic region in terms of its
practical use. Despite the high level of development of this
region, societal security is not relevant only to rich countries
but offers m any a dvantages t o d eveloping c ountries a s
well. In particular, a broader understanding of security,
advancing the role of society in it, strengthening the social
welfare component in security, and decentralization can
be promising for Georgia, which has had to deal with a
broad spectrum of threats since regaining independence.
This research examines this perspective and analyzes its
relevance for Georgia.